Tsurumi (manufacturer)

Tsurumi (manufacturer) is a Japanese industrial manufacturing company specializing in the development and production of submersible pumps and related fluid-handling equipment. Founded in Kyoto in 1924, the company has grown into a globally recognized leader in pump technology, serving diverse sectors including construction, wastewater treatment, mining, and industrial applications. Its extensive product portfolio is renowned for durability and innovation, with manufacturing and distribution networks spanning Europe, North America, Asia, and Oceania.

History

The company was established in 1924 by Yoshio Tsurumi in Kyoto, initially focusing on the repair and manufacturing of small electric motors. Following the devastation of World War II, Tsurumi pivoted towards the burgeoning post-war reconstruction market, beginning production of its first submersible pumps in the 1950s to support Japan's rapid industrialization and infrastructure development. A significant milestone was reached in 1965 with the introduction of the "Unicus" series, one of the world's first oil-filled submersible motor designs, which set new standards for reliability in harsh environments. Throughout the late 20th century, the company expanded internationally, establishing subsidiaries in Germany (1979) and the United States (1990) to solidify its presence in key global markets like the European Union and North America.

Products

Tsurumi's core product line encompasses a wide range of submersible pumps, including solids-handling pumps, drainage pumps, sewage pumps, and dewatering pumps designed for applications in construction sites, tunnels, and quarries. Beyond standard pumps, the company manufactures specialized equipment such as cutter pumps for handling stringy solids, high-head pumps for deep well applications, and hydraulic submersible pumps for use in hazardous areas. Its portfolio also extends to surface pumps, vacuum pumps, blowers, and integrated aeration systems used extensively in wastewater treatment plants, aquaculture, and food processing industries, with products certified by standards like UL and CE.

Technology and innovation

The company is distinguished by its proprietary oil-lubricated mechanical seal technology and the development of the KTZ motor cooling system, which enhances thermal management and extends operational life in partially submerged conditions. A major innovation was the creation of the Unicus series, utilizing an oil-filled submersible motor that provides superior insulation and heat dissipation compared to traditional air-filled motor designs. Recent advancements include the integration of IoT sensors for predictive maintenance through its Tsurumi Connect platform, and the development of energy-efficient models compliant with regulations like the European Union's ErP Directive. The Tsurumi Technical Center in Kyoto conducts continuous research into hydraulic design, material science for abrasion resistance, and motor efficiency improvements.

Global operations

Headquartered in Kyoto, Tsurumi maintains a vast international network, with primary manufacturing facilities in Japan and China supplying global markets. Its European operations are centered around Tsurumi (Europe) GmbH in Düsseldorf, Germany, which oversees distribution across the European Union, while Tsurumi America Inc. in Glendale Heights, Illinois, manages the North American market. Additional subsidiaries and joint ventures support operations in regions including Southeast Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East, with a dense network of authorized distributors providing sales and service in critical industries such as mining in Australia, construction in the United Arab Emirates, and municipal water works throughout Europe.

Corporate affairs

The company operates as part of the Tsurumi Group, with Yoshio Tsurumi's descendants remaining active in leadership roles, emphasizing long-term stability over public listing on exchanges like the Tokyo Stock Exchange. It holds numerous international certifications, including ISO 9001 for quality management and ISO 14001 for environmental management, and actively participates in industry associations like the Hydraulic Institute and Europump. Corporate philosophy emphasizes "Monozukuri" (the art of manufacturing) and rigorous quality control, with initiatives focused on reducing the environmental impact of its products through life-cycle assessment and developing pumps for renewable energy applications like geothermal power and biogas plant support.

Category:Manufacturing companies of Japan Category:Pump manufacturers Category:Companies based in Kyoto Category:1924 establishments in Japan